How to Bypass Ink Expiration

How to Bypass Ink Expiration



Most printer manufacturers are now putting computer chips in their ink cartridges. The chips tell your printer how much ink is left, and whether there are any specific problems with the cartridge. Unfortunately, some chips now also have an expiration date that automatically makes the cartridge stop working after that date. To prolong the life of your cartridge after the expiration date, you can bypass the date altogether by resetting the chip.


Things You'll Need
• Printer
• Printer cartridge
• Printer cartridge chip resetter



Instructions:

1. Purchase a chip resetter that works for your printer model. (See Resources for a link to an example of an Epson chip resetter that works with most Epson desktop printers.) To select the chip resetter for your cartridge, select the printer manufacturer from the list on the left of the screen, then scroll down to select your specific model.
2. Locate the cartridge chip--usually a copper-colored square on the back or bottom of the cartridge. Without removing it from the cartridge, set the chip side of the cartridge into the resetter. If it's a larger resetter, slide the cartridge in and let it sit there. For smaller ones, you'll need to hold it in place. Hold it there for about 30 seconds.
3. Repeat with all cartridges from the printer that need their date reset. Return them to the printer and print a document or photo to test the ink. If you get any error messages about low ink or unreadable cartridge, return the cartridge to the chip resetter and hold it for at least a minute.